1970 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 ‘Root Beer’ Unpolished with Glossy ‘Nipple’ dial

$9,500.00

First introduced in the early 1970s, the Rolex GMT-Master 1675/3 marked the arrival of the brand’s first two-tone travel watch—a warm blend of stainless steel and 18k yellow gold that diverged from the strictly tool-oriented steel models. What truly set these early examples apart, however, were their now-famous brown “Root Beer” dials, paired with raised gilt-framed “nipple” hour markers. These applied markers, shaped like tiny domes of gold, gave the watch a depth and texture unlike anything else in Rolex’s lineup at the time. With their sunburst tones, rich lacquer, and warm golden furniture, early Root Beer models became cult favorites—equal parts retro glamour and practical world-timing companion.

The earliest nipple-dial variants of the 1675/3 carry special allure: their matte or gloss surfaces were hand-finished, their brown pigments prone to magical shifts over the decades, and their gilt print often seeming to vanish or reappear depending on the light. These watches sit at the intersection of tool-watch heritage and unapologetic 1970s flair, representing one of the most charismatic chapters in the GMT-Master lineage.

The example offered here, from 1970, is nothing short of extraordinary.

Its glossy “Nipple” dial has developed a captivating caramel hue, the type that collectors chase for years and that remains perfectly even across the surface. Under certain angles the gilt text “ghosts” away completely, a desirable optical effect caused by the lacquer depth—proof of originality and an undeniable dose of charm. The dial is otherwise flawless, with no wear, no lifting, no spotting, and the creamy tritium plots remain full and intact. The original gilt hands show a particularly beautiful aging—rich, warm, and tonally perfect against the dial—giving the watch a personality that feels alive.

The 18k yellow gold bezel is crisp and carries a stunning violet-purple patina, a rare coloration that only decades of natural oxidation can produce. The stainless steel case is remarkably well preserved, unpolished, with sharp, prominent bevels and crisp factory brushing throughout—exactly how collectors dream of finding a 1675/3. Freshly serviced, it runs beautifully.

Paired with an unworn leather strap and matching gold Rolex buckle, the watch gains versatility without losing its vintage charisma.

Altogether, this 1970 GMT-Master 1675/3 represents the Root Beer at its most desirable: a ghosted caramel dial, flawless nipple markers, unpolished case, and purple-toned gold—an early two-tone GMT in a league of its own.

Brand: Rolex

Model: GMT-Master

Reference: 1675/3

Serial: 2557xxx

Year: 1970

Case material: Stainless steel case and 18k yellow gold bezel and crown

Case dimensions: 40mm excluding crown

Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds and date

Caliber: Rolex cal. 1570 Automatic

Strap: Unworn brown leather strap with golden Rolex buckle

Crystal: Acrylic

Accessories: None